Fabric Gallery

R51 County Clare

The current resurgence of handwork, "slow-stitching" and detailed techniques bring a fresh interest in the art of Broderie Perse, French for 'Persian embroidery'. This style of appliqué employs fussy-cut printed elements stitched to a background cloth to create a custom look. It was most popular in Europe in the 17th century. And there's no one better than Karen Styles to create a collection of printed motifs perfect for quilters to enhance their own Broderie Perse projects. In creating County Clare, Karen was inspired by the extraordinary appliqued quilts of Irish and English women of the 17th and 18th centuries. Her main panel (printed digitally) features beautiful bird and flower motifs typical of broderie perse, mirror-imaged to create movement. Karen's wide stripe and other companion prints to complete the look, from antique style quilts and home furnishings to artful clothing and accessories.